In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Jeyas Balaskanthan, Executive Director of the Uptown Waterloo BIA and candidate for Mayor of Waterloo. Jeyas shares how nearly 30 years in Waterloo have shaped his commitment to the community and his decision to run. They discuss safety, property taxes, community engagement, supporting small businesses and his priorities for the city. Jeyas also shares his leadership philosophy and what he loves most about Waterloo. This episode offers an opportunity to get to know Jeyas, his connection to the community, and his ideas for addressing local challenges, supporting small businesses, and shaping Waterloo’s future.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:01] - Jeyas shares who he is outside of work and the importance of family and friendships in his life.
• [02:17] - His role as Executive Director of the Uptown Waterloo BIA and why he took a leave of absence during the campaign.
• [03:07] - What working with Uptown businesses has taught him about supporting a city.
• [05:25] - How nearly 30 years in Waterloo and his work at Laurier and the University of Waterloo shaped his connection to the community.
• [06:32] - His involvement with the Lakeshore Optimist Club, Adventure4Change, The Working Centre and other community organizations.
• [07:45] - Why Jeyas decided to run for mayor and his desire to give back to the city.
• [9:56] - The concerns he is hearing from residents.
• [11:28] - Property taxes, city services and why he believes residents deserve clarity about how their taxes are working for them.
• [12:08] - Finding more creative ways for City Hall to connect directly with residents throughout the community.
• [14:22] - Why Jeyas believes Waterloo needs less red tape and more support for people looking to invest and build businesses.
• [16:22] - His thoughts on the city budget, property taxes and exploring new opportunities for revenue generation.
• [18:01] - Jeyas responds to concerns from residents who feel Waterloo is becoming less safe.
• [19:38] - How lighting, cameras, neighbourhood initiatives and collaboration could play a role in crime prevention.
• [24:13] - Why collaboration between police, bylaw, businesses and the community matters for Uptown Waterloo.
• [25:32] - What will be his first priorities if elected.
• [26:25] - Creating accessible community spaces and strengthening residents’ sense of belonging.
• [27:52] - Making city processes easier for small businesses through a more streamlined point of contact.
• [28:44] - What knocking on thousands of doors has taught Jeyas about Waterloo residents and their investment in the city.
• [30:28] - His servant-leadership approach and why empowering, appreciating and celebrating city staff matters.
• [33:48] - Some of Jeyas’ favourite local businesses.
• [37:41] - What Jeyas loves about Waterloo, from Waterloo Park and local businesses to universities, innovation and community events.

Connect with Jeyas:

Website: https://www.jeyasforwaterloo.ca/

Instagram: @jeyasforwaterloo

Facebook: @Jeyasforwaterloo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeyas-balaskanthan-b37b0a1b2

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Shannon Weber, a candidate for Mayor of Waterloo, to discuss her experience in municipal government, why she is running for mayor, and the issues she says matter to Waterloo residents. Shannon shares how her previous work at the City of Kitchener, including serving as Chief of Staff in the Office of Mayor and Council, has shaped her approach to municipal leadership, resident service, and local government. This episode offers insight into Shannon and her perspective on key issues facing the City of Waterloo, including affordability and property taxes, transparency at City Hall, community engagement, neighbourhood safety, and municipal service delivery.

In this episode you will hear:

• [00:26] - Meet Shannon Weber and hear about her connection to Waterloo, her family, and her involvement in the community.
• [02:11] - Shannon shares her experience at the City of Kitchener and what she learned about municipal leadership and resident service.
• [04:27] - Why Shannon decided to run for Mayor of Waterloo and what is motivating her campaign.
• [06:40] - Shannon reflects on her previous mayoral campaign and the experience she has gained in the four years since.
• [11:04] - The key concerns Shannon says she is hearing from residents, including affordability, taxes, infrastructure, and accountability.
• [15:34] - Neighbourhood concerns, tree planting, and Shannon’s thoughts on improving city services and communication with residents.
• [20:23] - Cher and Shannon discuss rebuilding residents’ trust and the importance of collaboration across Waterloo Region.
• [22:54] - How innovation, flexibility, and local ideas could play a greater role in solving challenges at City Hall.
• [25:02] - Shannon shares how local businesses and innovators can bring new solutions to municipal challenges by listening to the community.
• [29:44] - What Shannon believes Waterloo needs more or less of.
• [32:11] - A conversation about affordable and supportive housing.
• [34:32] - Shannon explains her approach to property taxes, city spending, core services, and adding new initiatives.
• [39:00] - How City Hall can meaningfully engage residents through neighbourhood events, grassroots conversations, and community connections.
• [43:33] - Why community engagement needs to go beyond online surveys and connect with residents where they already are.
• [45:56] - Shannon shares her three priorities if elected.
• [48:24] - Neighbourhood safety, crime concerns, policing, and ways communities can play a role in creating safer neighbourhoods.
• [50:24] - What Shannon has learned from knocking on thousands of doors and speaking directly with Waterloo residents.
• [52:58] - Shannon discusses her collaborative leadership style and the value of teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving at City Hall.
• [54:38] - Why supporting local businesses matters and Shannon’s encouragement for residents to shop and support local.
• [56:02] - Shannon shares what she loves most about Waterloo and the strong community that has been built.

Connect with Shannon:

Website: https://www.shannonweber.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonweberwaterloo

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/shannon-weber

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Peter, a local employment lawyer and founder of In Good Counsel, to explore the human side of workplace law. With experience representing both employees and employers, Peter brings a balanced and thoughtful perspective on everything from HR challenges and legal risk to conflict resolution and leadership. From navigating burnout and employee accommodations to understanding the impact of AI on the legal industry, this episode offers practical insight for business owners, employees, and anyone who wants to better understand how to handle conflict and build healthier working relationships.

• [02:30] - A look at the journey from law school to articling in Kitchener, leading to experience in private practice, union work, and eventually launching an independent firm.
• [03:54] - An explanation of how an interest in work, people, and real-life impact led to choosing employment law over more theoretical areas.
• [05:42] - Peter shares why moving away from transactional legal services toward long-term, relationship-driven work became a priority.
• [08:30] - Reflections on the freedom, flexibility, and unexpected creativity involved in building a business from the ground up.
• [11:36] - A discussion on how professions like law require business skills that aren’t taught in school, including operations, finances, and communication.
• [13:42] - An overview of how AI is increasing efficiency, challenging traditional billing models, and reshaping how legal services are delivered.
• [15:17] - A breakdown of common issues with AI, including misinformation and the potential loss of legal privilege when sensitive information is shared.
• [16:34] - An exploration of how AI is reinforcing the importance of trust-based, human relationships in professional services.
• [19:28] - A clear recommendation to have a proper employment agreement in place to define expectations and reduce legal risk.
• [22:00] - Guidance on not rushing to sign agreements and the importance of seeking legal advice before accepting an offer.
• [26:13] - A reflection on shifting from a transactional mindset to a relational, leadership-focused approach to law.
• [27:57] - An explanation of how legal work now includes guiding clients through human dynamics, not just providing answers.
• [30:15] - Why professionals need to guide the relationship rather than letting clients dictate the process.
• [31:50] - A conversation about how personality and approach impact client relationships and why not every client is the right fit.
• [35:15] - Why a calm, strategic approach is often more effective than the stereotypical aggressive style.
• [38:31] - A look at the growing challenges around mental health, stress leave, and how employers navigate accommodations.
• [40:44] - How employers can balance compassion with business needs and better understand their responsibilities.
• [41:13] - A perspective shift on conflict as a tool for clarity, stronger relationships, and better outcomes.
• [45:12] - How clarity, direct communication, and cultural influences shape how conflict is handled.
• [46:39] - A look ahead at Peter’s new podcast and his vision for evolving leadership within the legal profession.

Connect with Peter:

Instagram: @ingoodcounsel.ca

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Natasha, a conscious facilitator and embodied integration coach, to talk about embodiment, emotional regulation, women’s wellness, boundaries, nervous system regulation, and the power of dance. Natasha shares how her own experience with chronic back pain led her from a 20+ year career in adult education into mind-body health, coaching, facilitation, and her signature Freestyle Dance Alchemy program for women.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:01] — Natasha shares how a 20-year career in adult education eventually led her into embodied coaching and women’s wellness.
• [04:42] — Cher shares the powerful moment a woman broke down in tears after rediscovering how good it felt to dance.
• [09:11] — Natasha explains what embodiment really means and why so many women have learned to live almost entirely in their heads.
• [13:27] — Why slowing down can feel so uncomfortable when you are used to constantly doing, achieving, and keeping up.
• [17:21] — Natasha explains why something as simple as breathing can be the first step toward reconnecting with your body.
• [21:07] — Cher shares the reminder that someone else’s urgency does not have to become your emergency.
• [24:19] — Natasha and Cher talk about emotional regulation and why this generation is parenting differently than the generations before them.
• [29:11] — We have access to more information than ever, but our nervous systems were never designed to process everything happening in the world.
• [34:35] — How choosing what you are truly passionate about can help you stop carrying the weight of every problem around you.
• [36:32] — Natasha explains why setting a boundary is not about controlling someone else, but about deciding what works for you.
• [38:49] — A simple example about a friend who is always late shows what healthy boundaries can actually look like.
• [43:23] — Learning to sit with the discomfort of disappointing someone can completely change the way you approach boundaries.
• [51:23] — Why receiving help from the people you love is not being a burden, it is actually part of healthy connection.
• [54:52] — Natasha explains how Freestyle Dance Alchemy helps women reconnect with joy, play, confidence, and their bodies.
• [01:00:51] — Natasha shares what she is most excited to see unfold in her work and the women she serves over the next five years.

Connect with Natasha:

Website: https://www.humanistcoaching.ca/dance-program

Instagram: @freestyle_dance_alchemy

Facebook: @Freestyle Dance Alchemy

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Jessica Dietrich, founder and principal designer of Pine & Pixel, to talk about building a meaningful brand, navigating unexpected layoffs, and stepping fully into entrepreneurship. Jessica shares her journey from corporate graphic design to running a successful branding and website design studio, along with powerful insights on trusting your intuition, overcoming identity shifts, and creating aligned businesses that truly resonate.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:30] – Inspired by her father’s influence, Jessica reflects on how her love for design began and the story behind the name Pine & Pixel.
• [03:23] – Following an unexpected layoff, she shares the emotional journey of navigating shock, sadness, and self-doubt, and how she ultimately reframed it into an opportunity to fully step into her business.
• [10:05] – Rather than taking a safer, part-time route, a pivotal decision was made to go all in on building her business from the ground up.
• [12:56] – Learning to move forward without having every answer became a turning point in accepting the situation and embracing uncertainty.
• [20:22] – By sharing her story openly, she now supports others who are navigating similar challenges in their own journeys.
• [24:53] – Stepping into entrepreneurship felt unexpectedly natural, aligning seamlessly with both her skills and passions.
• [28:01] – Flexibility, freedom, and being more present with her children are just a few of the reasons she loves running her own business.
• [29:33] – Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at her process when working with clients on branding and website design projects.
• [30:38] – A strong emphasis is placed on strategy, user experience, and ensuring every design aligns with the ideal client.
• [32:33] – Through recent project examples, she illustrates how intentional and thoughtful design can directly impact business growth.
• [34:13] – A local business program played a key role in helping her refine her strategy while building confidence as an entrepreneur.
• [35:42] – With mentorship, business planning, and grant opportunities, the program offers tangible support for growing businesses.
• [39:48] – The power of community shines through as she shares her appreciation for collaboration over competition within the local business scene.
• [41:25] – Current design trends are explored, along with the importance of balancing what’s popular with what remains timeless.
• [43:01] – Each designer’s unique style becomes a magnet for aligned clients, reinforcing the value of authenticity in creative work.
• [45:30] – Jessica encourages entrepreneurs to seek expert support when feeling stuck, especially when it comes to branding and website strategy.

Special Offer: As a thank-you to the At Home Co. podcast community, Jessica is offering a complimentary strategy session or website audit to the first few listeners who reach out. Simply mention the At Home Co. podcast when you connect with her to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity.

Connect with Jessica:

Instagram: @pineandpixel

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Connor Faiczak, the owner of Faiczak Food and Fitness, a personal training studio with meal prep services focused on building healthy lives through education, movement, and nutrition. Connor shares his inspiring journey from a teen athlete facing injury to combining his passion for kinesiology and culinary expertise into a thriving business that transforms the lives of his clients.

In this episode you will hear:

• [02:20] Connor shares his heartwarming story of helping his great uncle lose 65 pounds and regain mobility, emphasizing the power of small, consistent movements
• [06:39] An overview of Faiczak Food and Fitness, including the private gym environment designed for personalized training and open, judgment-free conversations
• [09:48] Connor explains how his culinary background and passion for food led to offering meal prep services alongside personalized fitness training
• [14:34] Connor shares his fitness philosophy: simplify movement, integrate activity into everyday life, and focus on fundamentals for sustainable results
• [17:50] He discusses balancing fitness with lifestyle, allowing treats in moderation, and creating habits that are achievable and enjoyable
• [24:05] Connor emphasizes individualized exercise programming, combining strength, mobility, and rehab exercises tailored to each client’s needs
• [27:47] Nutrition strategies: creating sustainable food habits, simplifying choices, and making small adjustments for healthier meals without deprivation
• [34:13] Guidance on making mindful choices when eating out, balancing enjoyment with nutritional goals, and managing stress for overall health
• [42:41] Raising children with positive relationships with food and exercise, setting a strong example without imposing rigid rules
• [48:55] Connor talks about opening his gym, the early challenges, and the strategies that helped him attract and retain clients
• [50:12] The value of education and personalization in fitness, creating accountability and long-term lifestyle change for clients
• [55:09] Balancing culinary creativity with healthy meals, including modifying restaurant-style dishes for better nutrition
• [01:00:29] Connor shares his vision for expanding into schools and community events to educate children about movement and health

Connect with Connor:

Instagram: @faiczakfoodfitness

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co

In this episode of At Home in Waterloo Region, Cher sits down with Amanda Walczyk of Saltbox Mortgages to break down what homeowners need to know about mortgage renewals in 2026, why early planning is critical, and how having the right team can completely transform your real estate journey. They also share a real client success story that highlights the power of collaboration between a realtor, mortgage agent, and financial planner, along with real-world lessons from complex transactions.

In this episode you will hear:

• [01:18] Amanda explains why there is a surge in mortgage renewals this year and how increased volume is impacting timelines.
• [02:29] Amanda shares essential tips, including why self-employed individuals need up-to-date taxes and how job changes can affect mortgage approvals.
• [03:22] They emphasize that starting the renewal process at least three months in advance allows for better options, lower stress, and stronger outcomes.
• [04:07] Amanda walks through a real example where limited time reduced lender options and led to more expensive solutions.
• [05:14] They explain how open mortgages can offer flexibility but often come with significantly higher interest rates.
• [07:00] Cher and Amanda discuss how early planning helps eliminate uncertainty and reduces the mental burden of major financial decisions.
• [08:09] They highlight the importance of working with professionals who collaborate and communicate effectively on your behalf.
• [08:52] They share a detailed client story where strategic planning allowed homeowners to keep their property as a rental while purchasing their dream home.
• [11:23] Cher explains why they requested a longer financing condition and how it ultimately protected the client.
• [13:37] Amanda discusses why taking a conservative approach can help prevent costly surprises and ensure smoother transactions.
• [16:00] They share real-life examples of unexpected issues, including title complications and last-minute banking errors.
• [18:17] Amanda explains how mortgage approvals now take longer than in previous years due to increased scrutiny and volume.
• [20:56] Cher and Amanda discuss why it is important for professionals to stay within their expertise and collaborate rather than overlap roles.
• [24:29] Amanda highlights some favourite local businesses, including The Boathouse where her and Cher recently hosted an event

Connect with Amanda:

Instagram: @saltboxmortgage_agent

Let's Connect:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at.home.co
Website: www.athomecompany.ca
Email Community: https://athomeco.myflodesk.com/podcast
Contact: hello@athomecompany.ca

Thank you to our Sponsors:

• Amanda Walczyk, Mortgage Agent | Level 2 license at Dominion Lending Centres National Ltd, FSRA #12360
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltboxmortgage_agent
Contact: Amanda@saltboxmortgages.com
519.497.9256

• Den1880
Website: https://www.den1880.co
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/den1880.co